Description
A hearty and comforting Chili Cheese Dog Casserole featuring layers of chili with beans, sliced hot dogs, crispy tater tots, and a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, topped with optional garnishes like diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or ketchup for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Toppings
- Diced onions
- Jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Layer Chili and Hot Dogs: Spread the chili with beans evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced hot dogs on top of the chili to create the base layers of flavor.
- Add Tater Tots: Spread the frozen tater tots evenly over the hot dogs and chili, forming the crispy topping layer that will bake to golden perfection.
- Bake Tater Tots: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the tater tots. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve with Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve topped with optional diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or ketchup as desired to customize the flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the cheese topping for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Substitute regular hot dogs with turkey or vegetarian hot dogs for a lighter or meatless version.
- Use different cheese varieties like pepper jack or Monterey Jack to vary the flavor profile.
- Ensure the tater tots are spread evenly for uniform cooking and crispiness.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
